Modular Tree Electrical Connector for Easy Lighted Tree Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Assembling and powering large, complex artificial trees with numerous light strings is cumbersome due to the complexity of interconnecting and aligning multiple tree sections and managing numerous light strings, which often results in a cumbersome and difficult process.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates modular tree portions with multi-terminal electrical connectors and a wiring harness system that allows for easy alignment and secure electrical connection along a central axis, enabling efficient distribution of power through a power cord to multiple light strings without requiring intricate plug connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple standard light strings are distributed about the exterior of the tree with wires clipped to branches, then the tree can be illuminated, but the complexity of interconnecting and managing numerous light strings increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple electrical terminals (first and second terminals) into a single electrical connector assembly that is integrated into the tree trunk. This merging eliminates the need for separate plug connections for multiple light strings, as all connections are made through one unified connector system, thereby reducing plug management complexity while maintaining comprehensive illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a mechanical connection point for tree sections and as an electrical distribution hub for multiple light strings. This universal connector handles both structural assembly and electrical power distribution, simplifying the overall system by eliminating dedicated plug systems for lighting.
2Illumination intensity
If numerous light strings are connected end to end to power the tree, then illumination coverage is improved, but the risk of electrical arcing and safety hazards increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging all light string connections into a single electrical connector assembly with multiple terminals, the patent eliminates the end-to-end plug connections that create arcing hazards. All light strings connect directly to the centralized connector, preventing the sequential plug-chain configuration that leads to electrical arcing and safety issues.
3Illumination intensity
If pre-lit trees include high numbers of lights (1,000 or 1,500 lights), then decorative quality is enhanced, but the weight of the tree increases making it difficult to lift and align trunk sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the tree into separable trunk sections that can be assembled in a modular fashion. Each section contains integrated lighting and electrical connectors, allowing the tree to be constructed in manageable segments. This segmentation reduces the weight of individual sections that need to be lifted and aligned, while the complete assembled tree still achieves high illumination with numerous lights.
4Illumination intensity
If multiple electrical connectors and light strings are interconnected throughout the tree, then comprehensive lighting is achieved, but the difficulty of finding and properly connecting plugs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges all electrical connection points into a single centralized connector assembly located in the tree trunk. Instead of distributing multiple plug connection points throughout the tree, all light strings connect to this single location, dramatically simplifying the operation of finding and connecting plugs while achieving comprehensive lighting coverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighted artificial tree, including a first tree portion having a first electrical connector having a first electrical terminal positioned in line with a central vertical axis, and a second electrical terminal. The tree also includes a second tree portion that includes a second electrical connector having a first electrical terminal and a second electrical terminal, the second electrical terminal defining a ring shape that encircles the first electrical terminal. When the first tree portion is coupled to the second tree portion, the first electrical connector is coupled to the second electrical connector, such that the first electrical terminal of the first electrical connector is electrically connected to the first electrical terminal of the second electrical connector, and the second electrical terminal of the first electrical connector is electrically connected to the second electrical terminal of the second electrical connector.